Water
Latest Stories
Oregon snowpack levels in good shape now, but spring variables still in play
The approach of April marks a key time of the year. It’s when mountain snow usually peaks across Oregon — offering a hint at the severity of the coming wildfire season and about conditions for farmers who rely on irrigation.
OSU research finds a new way to measure the water held in snow
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new way to measure the water content of snow.
Potato processor, Oregon regulators reach settlement over wastewater violations
Lamb Weston has agreed to pay $143,400 for wastewater violations from its Hermiston potato processing plant that added 220 tons of nitrates to a region already burdened with groundwater pollution.
Crook County residents threaten to sue over tainted well water near Knife River mine
Federal lawmakers are also pressuring Oregon to take a hard look at groundwater complaints.
As Oregon proposes new groundwater rules, some agricultural groups push back
The Oregon Water Resources Department is looking for public input on major changes to the state's groundwater policy.
Ashland resident wants voters to decide on $75 million loan approved by city council
The Ashland City Council voted to borrow the money to fund a new water treatment plant earlier this month. Now, one resident is trying to force the city to bring the issue to voters.
Umatilla, Morrow counties begin to chart a path to clean drinking water for Lower Umatilla Basin residents
Commissioners from Umatilla and Morrow counties held a joint meeting in Hermiston Wednesday to discuss plans to find alternatives to contaminated private wells. The two governments agreed to use part of a $1.7 million grant from the EPA to hire a contractor to draw up the plans.
As Oregon enforces its water use requirements, small farmers face the consequences
As Oregon more actively enforces state rules around water usage, some farmers have learned that they’ve been operating illegally for years.
Solutions to Oregon’s drought could be found in the Deschutes Basin
Amid long-term drought, a river system in Central Oregon rebounded from dire straits.
As Oregon drought eases, uncertainty remains for some farmers
Oregon is the most drought-free it’s been since 2019, according to a recent report by the U.S. Drought Monitor. For some farmers, though, it will take more than one good season to recover.